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Treadwell off to Ulster

England U20 star Kieran Treadwell has signed a two-year contract with Irish club Ulster. The back-rower will swap Harlequins for Belfast later this year.

"I'm really excited about the opportunity that lies ahead with Ulster," he said.

"They are an ambitious club with lots of young talent coming through into the first team, a number of whom I played both alongside and against for Ireland U18s and England U20s. There is also a very clear pathway for me at Ulster if I work hard and impress the coaching staff.

"I want to thank Harlequins for all the time and effort they have put into developing and supporting me as a young player. As a result, this was a very difficult decision to make but one that I feel is right at this stage of my career. I wish Harlequins plenty of success over the coming years."

Meanwhile, Les Kiss, Ulster's Director of Rugby, was happy about his new signing and is looking forward to see what Treadwell can offer to the club.

"Securing someone of Kieran's ability and potential is hugely exciting for Ulster Rugby," said Kiss of the 201cm, 119kg Treadwell.

"It is key for us that we are not only successful at provincial level, but that we can produce viable candidates for the national team. We believe that Kieran has the goods to deliver this. He is a big, uncompromising ball-carrier and he has a natural athletic ability that belies his size.

"Having already gained experience of calling lineouts, he is a natural leader who will develop further and become an integral part of our squad."